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formerly

[ˈfɔːməli]

formerly Definition

  • 1in the past; before the present time
  • 2at a time in the past when someone or something had a particular position or status

Using formerly: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "formerly" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The company was formerly known as XYZ Inc.

  • Example

    He was formerly a professional athlete.

  • Example

    The building was formerly a church.

  • Example

    I formerly lived in New York City.

formerly Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for formerly

Phrases with formerly

  • used to indicate that someone or something had a different name or identity in the past

    Example

    Prince changed his name to a symbol and was formerly known as 'The Artist Formerly Known as Prince.'

  • used to indicate that someone or something used to be associated with a particular group or place

    Example

    She is formerly of the New York Times and now works for the Washington Post.

  • used to describe someone who has been released from prison after serving a sentence

    Example

    The organization provides job training and support for formerly incarcerated individuals.

Origins of formerly

from 'former' + '-ly'

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Summary: formerly in Brief

'Formerly' [ˈfɔːməli] refers to a time in the past, indicating that someone or something had a different position or status. It can be used to describe a previous name or identity, as in 'formerly known as,' or a previous association with a group or place, as in 'formerly of.' 'Formerly incarcerated' describes someone who has served a prison sentence.

How do native speakers use this expression?